Despite its large size the double bass is a sensitive and complex instrument. Slight variations in its structure can dramatically change the sound and feel of the instrument and because of their unique construction no two basses ever sound exactly the same. Each instrument is a combination of wood, structure, strings and set up. So each part of the bass must be chosen carefully and individual elements of the instruments must be chosen carefully to produce the correct sound.
For the past months I’ve been researching strings for my double bass, weighing the pros and cons against the music I intend to play. Orchestral strings, for example have a different function then strings used for jazz or pizzicato techniques. Since they can last for years the whole process is like dating. In fact the world would probably be a better place if people did their homework for marriage with at least the same depth as they do for their instruments.
None the less, the process is coming to a close and it looks like the winner is Corelli 370 Bass Strings, $103 a set (4) with a solid bass response, warm tone, and sustain, the three things I needed for playing the roots and americana music I prefer.
I’ll report back when they come in and I get them set up.
The Beautiful Path 